Shorebird migration provides some of the most exciting and varied photography of the year. While I enjoy chasing after birds anytime and in any location, it is the few weeks of spring migration that really gets me excited.
While the shorebirds will migrate two times a year, it is the spring migration that happens with the most intensity. Durring fall migration the birds move through in a more leasurely manner. Durring spring, however, they are driven to get to the breeding grounds which means lots of birds pass through in a very short period of time. On any given day one may find great variance from what was present just the day prior. This makes for exciting and often surpring outings.
One can never be sure what bird will be on the beach or in what mix. Here we have Black Bellied Plover joining a flock of Sanderling.
With some waiting I was finally rewarded with a Black Bellied Plover that moved away from the chaos of the flock.
Whimbrel are frequently present.
A nice flock of Surf Birds made a stop on some of the rocks along shore.
And, mixed in with the birds tht are passing through are those that will be staying for the summer such as the Snowy Plover. (I should note that Snowy Plover are present throughout the year with birds from further north wintering in the area)
With romance in the air, even the local residents become wonderful subjects as they begin thier courtship and family planning.
Bathing together is a bonding experience. 🙂
Bathing is a full body experience that begins with a good dunking.
It then progesses to a good drying.
Followed by a fluffing
And, finally, a straightening of the feathers.Â
All of these images were taken over the course of two mornings of shooting. We got wet, sandy and had a blast. I look forward to seeing what tomorrow brings.Â
Until then, Happy Shooting!